The Spanish champions have won just one domestic match this season, with the Blaugrana recording four victories in as many matches.

And the World Cup-winning midfielder is surprised at how large the gap has become so early in the campaign, but is refusing to get carried away.

"The difference [in points] is striking," he told Mundo Deportivo.

"But La Liga is another matter. We play every game without looking at how the other [teams] fare. It is insignificant what the others do.

"We have to look at ourselves only."

The Spaniard went on to voice his concern after club-captain Carles Puyol sustained a knee injury in the Spanish capital, and now faces up to six weeks on the sidelines.

"It's a big blow because he is our captain," he explained. "He remains optimistic, but tests have confirmed [the injury]."

Barcelona currently sit two points ahead of Malaga in the Liga table.

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